Best of Arlington 2015

Editors’ Pick

Chef to watch:

Tim Ma

Restlessness is a common trait among creative chefs, and Tim Ma is forever tinkering in the kitchen. In 2013, the mastermind behind Vienna’s acclaimed Maple Ave Restaurant opened Water & Wall in Virginia Square, garnering props for his bold flavor combinations and blending of global influences. Water & Wall was open only a few short months before Ma introduced “Uncle Paul Ma’s Kitchen,” a Chinese lunchtime pop-up (temporary menu) inside Water & Wall that paid homage to the uncle who inspired him to cook, with dishes like kung pao pork belly and beef brisket with broccoli. In October, that concept gave way to yet another pop-up menu, this one celebrating the bounty of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed with Virginia fare such as house-made pickles, catfish po’boys and Brunswick stew. What’s next for the RAMMY-nominated virtuoso, who recently squared off against other top chefs in D.C.’s Capital Food Fight fundraiser? We’re waiting to see what pops up.